INTERVIEW TIPS

Rather than answering questions with a simple “yes” or “no”, use specific examples of what you’ve done or what you would do.

Stress your achievements, records and accomplishments.

Answer all questions to the point without rambling

Never make derogatory remarks about previous or present employers. If asked directly what you like least about your company, answer the question and try to put a positive spin on it. Briefly explain how you benefited from your experience there, give a short reason for your departure and move on.

Do not concern yourself with salary, commission, bonuses or vacation on the initial interview.

Tell your possible employer what the company would gain by hiring you.

Always represent yourself honestly.

Be confident, not arrogant.

Dress appropriately:

For men:

A suit is always best practice, unless advised otherwise.

Jewelry should be kept to a minimum (watch and wedding ring).

Fingernails should be clean and well-trimmed.

For women:

A suit or executive dress/skirt is preferred – keeping the length close to the knee, and blouses modest.

Avoid gaudy or excessive jewelry / make-up.

Fingernails should be well manicured – if polished, make sure to put on a fresh coat.

STANDARD INTERVIEW QUESTIONS TO PREPARE FOR:

Why are you leaving?

Why did you select my organization to interview?

What interests you most about the position we have? The least?

Why should we hire you?

What are your short-range objectives? Long-range?

What salary are you looking for?

What are your five biggest accomplishments in your present job or last job? Your career?

What is your biggest strength? Weakness?

How long would it take you to make a contribution to our firm?

Have you helped increase Profits? Reduced costs?

Tell me about yourself

What do you look for in a job?

Have you ever dealt with difficult people? How did you handle it?

What can you do for us that someone else cannot do?

Can you work under pressure, deadlines, etc.?

How long would you stay with us?

What qualities have you liked or disliked in your boss?

What was the most difficult ethical decision you have had to make? What was the result?

How do you show your anger or frustration?

Why haven’t you obtained a job so far?

What features of your previous jobs have you disliked?

What is the worst situation you have been faced with in your professional life? How did you deal with it?

What was the last book you read? Movie you saw?

How do you spend your free time?

Are you a leader? A good manager? Give an example.

How do you build a team under you?

How would you describe your own personality? How would you describe yourself in one word?

Where do you relate best – up on level, down one level or with your peers?

What do your subordinates think of you? How do you evaluate your subordinates?

Have you hired people before? What do you look for? Have you fired people? When and why?

QUESTIONS YOU MAY CONSIDER ASKING IN AN INTERVIEW:

It’s always a good idea to ask questions in an interview, if given the opportunity. This shows that you are interested in the position and the company. If you don’t have any questions of your own, you may consider asking a couple from the list below:

What two or three things would you expect this person to accomplish within the first six months?

What are the three most important things for someone to have in order to be successful in this position?

What is the average tenure of the company’s current employees?

What are the characteristics of your top people?

What are three main qualities you are looking for in a candidate?

How do you see me fitting in with your company?

Why did you join the company? What do you like/dislike about it the most?